FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 18, 2016

CALGARY, ALBERTA — A group of oilsands workers called Iron & Earth is applauding moves by the Alberta provincial government to increase training and employment transition opportunities in the energy sector.

"The Alberta government's new budget contains some very positive first steps to help oilsands workers find new opportunities in Canada's growing renewable energy sector," said Joe Bacsu, who is a member of Iron & Earth and currently works as a boilermaker in the oilsands.

Iron & Earth are highlighting four items contained from Alberta's 2016-17 budget that are particularly positive for workers:

• $3.4 billion will be invested in large-scale renewable energy projects and technologies that have significant job-creation potential

• $25 million will be invested directly into new apprenticeship and training opportunities

• $25 million will be invested in startups that can create jobs in areas like clean energy and clean technology

• Communities that will be affected by the coal phase-out will get direct support, including a commitment to train workers and help them transition into other areas of the economy

“This budget is a big step forward towards creating renewable energy jobs in the province, and now we need the details," said Bascu. “We are hoping the government will use this budget to get some of our out-of-work members into training programs, and into renewable energy jobs.”

Iron & Earth was created in the spring of 2015 as oil prices were falling and oilsands workers were struggling to find employment. The group is committed to building Canada's energy future while finding good, stable employment for oilsands workers. Its membership includes a variety of industrial trades, including boilermakers, electricians, pipefitters, ironworkers and labourers.

Members of Iron & Earth are available to the media for interviews about their organization and to discuss the Alberta provincial budget.

Visit Iron & Earth's website athttp://www.ironandearth.org